Burton Albion face an impossible task as they prepare for their Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Manchester City.

A fortnight ago, the League One side travelled to the Etihad and were thrashed 9-0 by Pep Guardiola’s side.

With the likes of Kevin de Bruyne, David Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Leroy Sane all starting for the Premier League champions, it was hardly surprising to see such a convincing scoreline.

But you had to spare a thought for Burton goalkeeper Bradley Collins, who had to continue picking the ball out of his net.

Collins, who is on loan from Chelsea, just looked completely demoralised by full-time.

And it seems City boss Guardiola recognised that.

The Spaniard went over to the 21-year-old at the final whistle and was seen deep in conversation with him.

But what did he actually say?

Well, ahead of the second leg, Collins has revealed all.

"He said; 'tough night?' I simply said 'yes'. Then he proceeded to say what an incredible achievement it was for us to get to the semi-final," Collins told Goal.

"He said that we were a credit to ourselves and he said the same to the staff.

"It was nice to have that from him. He could have just enjoyed the goals for himself but no, he had time for us, which was brilliant, when a manager of that stature has respect for us.

"I was thinking 'wow' on the final whistle. That’s the first time in a game situation that I have played against a team who are that good.

"It just shows the level from here to there. It is incredible, it is really frightening. I really enjoyed it but I was drained at the same time."

Collins will just be hoping for a slightly easier night at the Pirelli Stadium on Wednesday as Burton attempt to salvage some pride from the two-legged affair.

With a bit of luck, Guardiola and City might take it easy on them...